School pupils deserve an extra pat on the back
Grades have improved despite no exams
Pupils across the Stirling area were this week celebrating as exam results arrived through the letter box.
Youngsters across the area have continued to achieve high levels of attainment according to this year’s SQA results amid a uniquely challenging period.
Figures show that the number of pupils achieving a minimum of three Highers has slightly increased from 12 months ago.
The percentage of those in S5 securing five Highers is comparable to last year’s results, and there is a similar picture for the number of S4 pupils attaining five awards at National 5 level. In S6, results also remain broadly similar to previous years. For pupils in Clackmannanshire, overall there is improvement in the pass rate in both National 5 and Higher level, with all three secondary schools reporting improvement.
The poverty-related attainment gap also narrowed this year, which means young people from Clacks’ most disadvantaged areas gained more qualifications than in previous years. This was the same for the council’s ‘Looked After Children’ who also gained more qualifications this year.
There is also improvement in English at both National 5 and Higher and Maths at National 5.
Forth Valley College also saw an increase in attainment rates. Over 86 per cent of students studying National 4/5s, Highers and Skills for Work programmes successfully achieved their qualification – an increase of 12 per cent from 74 per cent in 2018/2019.
Exams were cancelled for the first time in history due to the coronavirus crisis. Results were worked out using teacher estimates, based on the pupil’s performance over the school year.
Convener of Stirling Council’s children and young people committee, Councillor Susan Mcgill said: “This year, more than ever, we are proud of our young people for achieving such excellent results which maintain an impressive level of consistency.
“The last five months has been a tough time for families and our education staff, and this success is a welcome boost ahead of the reopening of schools this month as we look forward to a return to a full-time education.”
Councillor Graham Lindsay, Clackmannanshire Council’s spokesperson for education, added his own praise for the pupils, saying: “I’m lucky enough to see first-hand how amazing Clackmannanshire’s young people are, and I congratulate them all on their wonderful achievements. It’s really important that we all take the time to show our admiration for their hard work, as these results are the culmination of years of effort and application. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our wonderful teachers and the support of pupil’s families.
“There’s help and advice available from both schools and partners for anyone with questions, so I’d encourage pupils and families to get in touch. For those who have now left school, good luck with the next stage of your life.
“If you’re returning to Alloa, Alva or Lornshill Academies next week – your teachers can’t wait to see you and continue your learning journey together.”
Dr Ken Thomson, principal of Forth Valley College, added: “It is just fantastic to see so many students waking up to positive results today. It is testament to all their hard work, flexibility and determination that they have reached this point and it should fill them with so much confidence, that they can adapt to anything, as they take their next steps.
“It has to be said that I am also very proud of all my staff who have worked tirelessly, to support our students during this challenging period.”
Two helplines are open for candidates following the issuing of the exam results.
Skills Development Scotland has a helpline for young people whose results were either better or worse than expected.
Their advisers can offer information on college and university vacancies, employment and training. The helpline (0808 100 8000) will be open 8am-8pm today and then from 9am-5pm, August 6 to12.
The SQA Candidate Advice Line (0345 279 1000) provides information for candidates on the content and layout of their certificate. This will be open from 8.30am-5pm until Friday.
Let us know how you got on with your exams. Simply send your name, age, school and results along with a photo of you and your certificate to news@ stirlingobserver.co.uk.